Babies have to be comforted in order to make them feel secure. A feeling of security comes in the baby when she is being rocked, cuddled or swaddled. Sucking of fingers also gives a feeling of security.Help them Comfort Themselves
Sucking is not just a means of nourishment for some babies. They derive satisfaction from the act of sucking itself. Babies appreciate your help in getting their fingers to their mouths. Some appreciate your lending a finger or two. (Please ensure that your nails are clean and closely clipped). Others find pleasure in a dummy.
Rhythmic Rocking, Cuddling and Swaddling
Babies respond to rhythmic rocking in your arms, a pram or a cradle. Walking the floor with your baby in your arms, a sling or a carrier may be tiring, but a tried and true measure. Some babies derive comfort from being tightly swaddled. Cuddling gives the baby a sense of security. A warm water bath, singing, stroking and
massaging, rhythmic sounds like the hum of a fan, all have a soothing effect.
Tips to Avoid Crankiness in Babies
Here are some tips shared that shall help you deal with a crying baby. Keep in mind these tips to comfort your baby faster than before.
1. Take time on your stride
Babies are known to be extremely cranky in the 6th week and then it tends to reduce with time. So, try and keep aside the work that is not more important than your baby. Things shall get better with time and you can spend doing those works that have been shelved for long. When you know you have less to do, you feel more relaxed.
2. Look for support
There is no point in proving your super powers by trying to do everything yourself and then end up in a complete mess. Reach out for help and plan out your household chores, baby sitting hours and cooking chores accordingly. You can also get in touch with moms and get ideas from them to better deal with stressful situations.
3. Take it easy
There is nothing to prove to anyone and there is no need to be perfect in what you do. According to experts, your newborn shall occupy 1/3rd of your time and thus you too shall concentrate more on developing attachments with her than taking care of the other household chores. You must not pressurise yourself to get all your works done on time. Have realistic expectations and try to relax when your baby is relaxed too.
4. Know your limits
Try and address the signs that tell you feel overwhelmed. Once you have identified your personal limits, it shall get easier for you to plan your activities ahead. May be you need some more break that day before getting on with the next activity. Do stop now and then to take care of yourself, so that you better understand the needs of your little one.
Why Do Babies Cry?
There may be several reasons why a baby cries. While sometimes she may simply cry to attract your attention or otherwise it may be she is reeling under some serious discomforts. Here is a list of cases when babies generally cry. Take a look:
- Anxiety or fear
- Food allergies, reflux or colic
- Hunger
- Illness or pain
- Fatigue or sleeplessness
- Dirty or wet diaper
If in any case you are simply not able to understand why she is crying, it is a good idea to call a paediatrician right away. Your doctor may help you recognise her preferences, likes and dislikes and identify if there are any other issues that your baby is facing.